Jackman named Dragons coach

The 41-year-old – who won the 2009 European Cup with Leinster – takes over the Dragons three months after being sacked as coach of Top 14 side Grenoble in what had been a troubled season on and off the pitch.

Dragons have acquired some experienced talent for next term in former Wales golden boy Gavin Henson, who signed a two-year contract, and Springbok international utility back Zane Kirchner from Leinster.

"It is a huge honour for me to be joining the Dragons at such an exciting time in their history," said Jackman, who was capped nine times by Ireland.

"We are obviously at the beginning of a major period of transition off the pitch, but on it we will need to quickly get down to work and reward the faith and obvious passion of our supporters throughout the region."

Grenoble struggled for form in the Top 14 – Jackman had been with them since 2011 but only took over as head coach for the 2016/17 campaign and was sacked with six matches remaining – and were eventually relegated.

They also suffered from terrible headlines off the pitch with three players being accused of gang rape – the investigation is still ongoing.

Agence France-Presse